We diagnose and treat a number of neurovascular conditions including:
Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a leakage of blood beneath the arachnoid membrane of the brain, from a major blood vessel. It affects a person suddenly, and usually without any warning signs.
We understand that a SAH is often a shock to you and your family. Many people have anxieties during their illness and recovery periods and lots of questions.
You can find out more about SAH on the NHS website including:
A cerebral or intracranial aneurysm is a balloon-like swelling on an artery within the brain. An aneurysm normally develops where the normal artery wall is weaker such as where blood vessels divide and branch off. Most aneurysms in the brain will not cause any symptoms and are only found when a brain haemorrhage occurs. However, not all aneurysms will bleed and if identified by a scan then planned treatment can sometimes be offered.
In a very small number of families, there is a tendency to develop aneurysms on the brain. Individuals who have two or more first degree relatives who have had a cerebral aneurysm may have a slightly increased risk of developing an aneurysm. In such family members referrals for screening can be offered.
An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormality of the blood vessel network. Arteries and veins become joined in a haphazard manner, often forming knot-like appearances. AVMs are likely to be weaker than normal blood vessels.
A cavernoma is a malformation of blood vessels, often forming a small round cluster of abnormally enlarged blood vessels. Cavernomas are likely to be weaker than normal blood vessels
Hydrocephalus is the build up of excess fluid within the brain. This excess fluid leads to an increase of pressure on the brain. Following some neurovascular conditions the normal flow of fluid around the brain can become interrupted which may result in hydrocephalus.
Headaches are a common symptom that most people will experience at some time in their lives. However, following a subarachnoid haemorrhage or other neurological illness some individuals may experience ongoing chronic headaches which can be difficult to manage. There are many types and causes of headaches and specialist input may be required to find the right treatment.
A seizure or fit is a brief disruption of the brains normal electrical activity leading to a variety of symptoms. Someone who has epilepsy often has recurrent seizures. The symptoms experienced during a seizure depend on where in the brain the abnormal electrical activity occurs. Following a brain haemorrhage some people may develop epilepsy.